The shrine itself was built in 1895 to celebrate the 1,100 anniversary of the founding of Heiankyo (the ancient name for Kyoto). The shrine itself doesn't compare to the better known temples and shrines littered throughout the city, but the gardens are worth a visit.

Heian Shrine's main claim to fame is that it plays host to the annual Jidai Matsuri Festival. Unless you have an interest in period dress - "Jidai Matsuri" literally means historical period festival - it is a rather tame affair. College students are hired to parade throughout the city in costumes representing various periods in the city's history.

In addition to the above museums, the Kyoto Zoo, the Miyako Messe (a large convention hall), the Hosomi Museum, and of course Heian Jingu Shrine are a short walk.

Access

From JR/Kintetsu Kyoto Station, take bus #5 from boarding area A1 headed for Iwakura Soshajo. Get off at Kyoto Kaikan Bijutsukan-mae. From Hankyu Karasuma Station/Kawaramachi Station or Keihan Sanjo Station Kyoto City Bus No. 5 (headed for Iwakura Soshajo). Get off at Kyoto Kaikan Bijutsukan-mae. Or a five-minute walk from the Higashiyama Station on the Tozai subway line